Over hundreds of body issues, hair loss is one of the most common but devastating occurrences anyone can encounter. Unfortunately, most adults, including children, experience hair loss daily. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, a person can lose around 50 to 100 hairs daily.
Although hair loss can be seen as a common issue, more serious concerns related to it can mostly go unnoticeable for many. Therefore, knowing the early signs and causes can be beneficial for you to know possible regrowth options when experiencing actual hair loss.
Early Signs of Hair Loss
A person can either experience a partial or complete hair absence. While it is common for many, some people experience more hair loss than usual. The early signs of hair loss include the following:
Gradual Thinning of the Hair
As we age, it is common to experience hair loss. Gradual thinning of hair in men usually starts on top of the head, while women experience receding hairline.
Loose Hair
This can be noticed when washing or combing your hair. If your hair brush, combs, or bathroom clogs are collecting more hairs than usual, that can indicate hair loss.
Patchy Bald Spots
This can happen on your head or other parts of your body where hair grows (beard, eyebrows, etc.). Bald spots differ in size and eventually grow over time.
Itchy or Painful Skin
This can happen to people with skin conditions. Your skin can experience itch and pain before the hair falls out. Some people can also experience redness, swelling, and scaling all over the scalp.
Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss can boil down to different causes. Some of them include the following:
Aging
One thing you can consider a cause is aging. Undeniably, as we grow older, our cells also die more quickly than before. As a result, there is less oil production in the scalp, leading to weaker hair and brittles.
Genetics
Another cause of hair loss is genetics. Androgenetic alopecia is hereditary and the most common and severe type of hair loss. Hair parts can also gradually widen when dividing the hair.
In most severe cases, hair loss medications are prescribed by dermatologists to help slow down the progress and eventually achieve hair regrowth.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes like higher androgen levels can also cause pattern hair loss in women. Other factors causing hormonal change include pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Other than that, people can also experience hair loss when going through stressful events in life.
According to Cleveland Clinic, during menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels decline, and the effects of androgens—male hormones—increase. Because hair follicles contract during and after menopause, hair may become thin. In these circumstances, hair grows more slowly and sheds more frequently.
Hair Regrowth Options
Varying treatment options for hair regrowth are available for people needing one. You should identify the exact nature of your hair and choose hair loss solutions accordingly!
Medication
Over-the-counter medications like Minoxidil (Rogaine) prevent further hair loss and eventually help you grow your hair back.
You can use the Minoxidil solution once a day for women and twice for men, directly applying it on the scalp. Remember that it takes months to see if these products are effective for you.
Hair Transplant
Hair transplant surgery is also an option. People who experience permanent hair loss can opt for a hair transplant. Hair transplants help make use of the remaining hair you have. A dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon does the procedure. Others may need more than one procedure to achieve better results.
Scalp Massage
Going the natural way can be helpful too! For example, a simple scalp massage with hair oils can improve hair thickness. Pure Aloe vera can also help soothe your scalp and improve hair condition.
Natural Oils
You can’t ignore the benefits of natural oils for healthy hair. These natural oils can help you regrow your hair:
- Coconut oil
- Fish oil
- Ginseng
- Onion juice
- Rosemary oil
- Geranium oil
- Lemon
When To See A Doctor
If the sudden patchy and unusual excessive hair loss is causing you distress and frustration, that can be your sign to ask for medical help. When that happens, make sure you talk to an expert and get the help you might need.
Again, consulting with a professional can lead to early treatment and avoid an even worse hair loss situation. All you have to do is find a dermatologist or doctor specializing in hair loss and set an appointment.
Procedures in determining the primary cause of hair loss may include hair and scalp examinations or scalp biopsy. Blood examinations may also be done to see if other factors like vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems cause hair loss. Besides that, a pharmacist or your primary care physician can also help with other treatments and interventions.
Conclusion
Hair loss concerns are commonly overlooked by many. Unfortunately, people usually hide these hair loss problems differently without taking accurate measures. While some can work, they won’t last long most of the time. If you feel like the hair loss you are experiencing is unusual, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Proper intervention and hair care is the most effective answer to these hair loss scenarios. In addition, starting the appropriate treatment earlier can lead to higher chances of hair regrowth and better hair condition.
READ MORE
How To Choose Best Shampoo For Hair Loss?
Leave-In Conditioners: How They Improve Hair Health
Emily Smith is a talented content writer, wielding words to create captivating stories and informative articles across a wide range of topics. With a passion for effective communication and a love for research, Emily consistently produces engaging and valuable content. She’s dedicated to conveying ideas clearly and compellingly, making her a sought-after voice in the digital sphere. When not writing, Emily enjoys immersing herself in art, nature, and culinary adventures for fresh bursts of creativity.
Loading…